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Safety Focus of the Week: Cold Stress (Revisited)
Winter is at our doorstep, and it’s time to be prepared for protection against cold stress injuries.
Cold stress injuries can happen at many times of year but is obviously more of a concern now that the weather has turned significantly colder. We need to be aware of and protect ourselves from both frostbite and hypothermia.
Frostbite (cdc.gov website):
- Frostbite is an injury to the body that is caused by freezing.
- Frostbite causes a loss of feeling and color in the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, or toes.
- Seek medical care if you think you have frostbite.
More information: http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/staysafe/frostbite.asp
Hypothermia (from cdc.gov website):
- When exposed to cold temperatures, your body begins to lose heat faster than it can be produced.
- Low body temperature may make you unable to think clearly or move well.
- You may not know you have hypothermia.
- If your temperature is below 95°, the situation is an emergency—get medical attention immediately.
More information: http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/staysafe/hypothermia.asp
